Anuradha Singh  is a scientist with National Institute of Science, Technology and Development Studies (CSIR) doing research on the theory and practice of Ayurveda. She has authored a book and several research papers on crossroads of Science and Indian Medical Traditions, Philosophical Foundations of Classical Medical Theories and Maternal Health & Ayurveda. She is also a founder member of Lok Swasthya Parampara Samvardhana Samiti (LSPSS) a network of individuals and NGOs working for the development and revitalization of Indian systems of health care. She was a resource person for MATRIKA and also an active member of its Advisory Board. She shares with her fellow contributors (of this issue) the conviction that Ayurveda, as a preventive and curative health system, can be a panacea to all that ails the humans, animals and the plant kingdom.

This paper emphasises the need to nurture a plural healing approach in Maternal and Child Health Care so as to reduce Maternal and infant mortality rates. It highlights the strengths of Ayurveda and suggests ways to adopt these practices through the National Rural Health Mission.

This paper explores the notions of the subtle body and how it has given shape and life to birth rituals and notions in the Dai tradition.

This paper outlines the various kinds of diet to be followed during pregnancy month by month based on the teachings of Ayurveda.

Anaemia is a major public health issue in India today. Anemia can be called our national disease and in fact it is a national calamity. The figures for anemia among women and children of India are truly staggering. It is estimated that more than half of all Indian women and 3/4th of Indian children suffer from anemia. The paradox about anemia is that, in India the level of anemia does not seem to have any relationship with the ^material wealth of the state- measured in terms of Net State Domestic Product (NSDP). Nor does anemia seem to have any relationship to the nutritional intake in different states measured in terms of calories proteins and fat. Neither the nutritionists nor the economists and sociologists of our country are able to provide any insight into this paradox. The only explanation possible for this paradox is provided by an Ayurvedic perspective. Ayurveda understands and treats anemia effectively and can offer a solution for this national problem.

Ayurveda considers food to be the best source of nourishment as well as medication for the pregnant woman. The nine monthly diet is singularly unique to Ayurveda. It changes in accordance with the growth of the fetus in the womb and at the same time ensures health of the mother. One can find remnants of this dietics with midwives and older women, but a detailed and comprehensive diet plan is being practiced only by the vaidyas of the classical medical tradition. In this paper we are giving a broad expanse of the month wise diet, which can be modified according to the age, season, place, constitution and the digestive fire of the pregnant woman.

To rely on Ayurveda is the best way to ensure a safe and natural childbirth. Ayurveda understands all the factors, which bring about a hazard-free childbirth. By following a regulated diet and regimen, the pregnant mother is prepared for a natural delivery. By helping nature to take its course, women enjoy a risk-free childbirth. This paper provides a broad view of the diet and regimen during pregnancy

Mother and child care has been described in great detail in Ayurveda. All basic principles of Ayurveda need to be applied to deal with the problems of maternal and foetal mortality. Rules of Ahara (diet), Vihara (lifestyle), Sadavrutta (moral conduct), along with varied therapies are used in tackling the various problems. There is need to take an in depth view at causes. Major changes in lifestyle may be required. Uses of various Ayurvedic formulations like various ghrtas and tailas (ghees and oils) have given wonderful results. Ayurveda aims at producing "Supraja" or healthy progeny. Ayurveda provides answers to some of the most worrying problems facing doctors today.

Reviving and re establishing the practices which were prevalent in India along with some orientation towards Ayurvedic approaches shall be a suitable answer to the burning issues of women' health. Mainstreaming the Ayurvedic practices in women health care appears to be the most effective remedial measure to lower MMR and promote maternal health. The present paper is a narrative of exemplary practices in the management of the most important phases like puberty, pregnancy and post natal care in accordance with Ayurveda

This paper elaborates the Ayurvedic perspective on preventive medicine in children, with specific reference to vaccination. It explores alternative approaches to boost immunity in children.